How we chose the best moving companies for your WA to SD move
Using rate data from 95 Washington movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Washington to South Dakota?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Washington
to South Dakota with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,328 – $5,549 |
$901 – $2,122 |
$745 – $1,423 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,017 – $6,912 |
$1,504 – $3,054 |
$782 – $1,658 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,294 – $9,760 |
$2,123 – $4,215 |
$1,004 – $2,126 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,246-mile move from WA to
SD, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Washington to South Dakota
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Washington to South Dakota,
you can expect to spend between $1,328
and $5,549.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $3,017 to
$6,912 on the same route
(WA to SD). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Washington to South Dakota typically runs between
$5,294 and
$9,760.
Cost of moving containers from Washington to South Dakota
Moving from Washington to South Dakota? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $901 and
$2,122. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,504 to
$3,054. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,123 up to
$4,215. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Washington.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington to South Dakota
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$745 and
$1,423.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$782 and
$1,658.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,004 and
$2,126.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WA to SD
There are many factors that influence Washington moving costs. The cost to move from Washington to South Dakota will depend on these factors:
-
How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Washington fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from WA to SD
Moving between Washington and South Dakota involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Washington vs. South Dakota
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Washington and South Dakota. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Washington |
South Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,900 |
$878 |
| Average home cost |
$588,856 |
$306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$90,325 |
$69,457 |
| Cost of living index |
115 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.8% |
1.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.5% |
6.4% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
0.0% |
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Rent in South Dakota is about 54% cheaper than in Washington, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in South Dakota are roughly 48% less than in Washington, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Dakota are about 23% lower than in Washington.
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Moving to South Dakota is about 13% cheaper than living in Washington. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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South Dakota has a lower unemployment rate than Washington by about 60%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Sales tax is similar in South Dakota and Washington, so you won’t see much change in what you pay at the register after your move.
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Neither Washington nor South Dakota has a state income tax, so you’ll keep more of your gross income no matter where you live.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Washington
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how South Dakota differs from Washington in these areas.
|
South Dakota |
Washington |
| Population |
919,318 |
7,812,880 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 63-37 |
Democratic |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
79ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
31ºF |
| Annual rain |
23″ |
38″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
18″ |
| Crime index |
21.14 |
37.32 |
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With a population about 88% smaller than Washington, South Dakota offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living.
Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
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In the last presidential election, South Dakota voted Republican and Washington voted Democratic.
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Summers in South Dakota reach 85°F, warmer than 79°F in Washington.
Expect brighter days and more outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
-
Winter in South Dakota can dip to 7°F, colder than the 31°F lows in Washington.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
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In South Dakota, you’ll see about 23 inches of rain each year, less than the 38 inches you’re used to in Washington.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
-
In South Dakota, it snows about 39 inches annually while Washington gets only about 18 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
South Dakota offers a safer environment than Washington, with a crime index of 21.14 versus 37.32.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Washington vs. South Dakota
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in South Dakota stacks up against Washington:
| Pros of living in Washington |
Pros of living in South Dakota |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Outstanding tax benefits |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Robust job market |
| High quality of life |
Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Delicious seafood |
Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Washington vs. South Dakota
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Washington to South Dakota, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Washington |
Cons of living in South Dakota |
| Constant rain |
Extreme weather |
| Bad traffic |
Small-town mindset |
| High cost of living |
Sparsely populated |
| High crime rate |
Strange and offensive laws |
| Natural disasters |
Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Washington to South Dakota move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
South Dakota does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to South Dakota right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in South Dakota
Get ready to discover South Dakota. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in South Dakota
- Adams House
- The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
- Adams Museum
- Tatanka: Story of the Bison
- South Dakota Air and Space Museum
Parks in South Dakota
- Falls Park
- Canyon Lake Park
- Founders Park
- Memorial Park
- Upper Chautauqua Park
Sports teams in South Dakota
- Aberdeen Wings (NAHL)
- Rapid City Rush (ECHL)
- Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League)
- Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)
Universities in South Dakota
- University of South Dakota
- South Dakota State University
- South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
- Dakota State University
- Augustana University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Washington to South Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Washington to South Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from Washington to South Dakota?
More and more folks are relocating from Washington to South Dakota to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Is it cheaper to live in Washington or South Dakota?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in Washington.
Housing
is more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 54% less and home prices 48% lower than in Washington.
The tax rate is about the same between Washington and South Dakota.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota?
If you’re planning to live on your own in South Dakota, aim for an income of around $62,655 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,529 if you’re flying solo, or $5,562 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Washington?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Washington.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 4 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 5 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 2 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
Washington moving services
Popular Washington routes
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When planning a move from Washington to South Dakota, professional movers typically run between
$3,017 and $6,912, a moving container averages about
$2,279, and a rental truck is around
$1,220.
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